RE: pump or semi
I prefer the semi-automatic. It allows quick 2nd and 3rd shots without the distraction of having to pump the gun. I do not see a problems with reliability as neither my Remington SP-10 Magnum nor my 12 guage Weatherby SAS have ever failed to cycle flawlessly in the field. In addition, for any given load there is less felt recoil with a semi-automatic than with a pump gun. My 10 guage semi-automatic is more comfortable to shoot than 12 guage pump shotguns I have owned.
Caldoc